by Effie Moore Salem

Created on: February 21, 2009

Why are there no birds in my backyard, many homeowners with meticulous lawns and sculptured gardens ask? There are no signs that tell robins, sparrows, bluebirds and others that they are welcome. Their one intention is to find an area somewhat resembling a wild area that will become their sanctuary. They are not in the least interested in adding charming activity and pleasing color to your work of art lawn. When birds visit you or homestead on your property, it is at their decision, not yours.

How then can you make them welcome? You plant trees for their nests and add plants and bushes that will supply them with food. Also, there must be areas that are relatively safe since they will want to build nests and raise families there. Getting them there is not really as hard as it seems, but at first it may seem so. After the area is to their liking you will be pleased to find them returning year after year. Some, even, of the hardier varieties, will stay around all year.

Toward this end make sure you have water sources. It need not be many birdhouses; one will do if it is always full of water. If you live near a lake or even a small pond, then you will be assured of birds being around. If your trees produce food such as cherries and other fruits they like to eat, you are halfway there. Dried Grasses and small bits of sticks and other nesting materials close by will be an added attraction.

Keep the seasons in mind. Not all birds fly north or south, some will be in your area year round. Therefore, the kind of plants to plant will be those that produce nuts, berries and other kinds of food. These generally will be those plants that not only supply the birds with food but are those you too can eat. Berry bushes are an excellent choice when you are attempting to please the birds.

If you are neat and orderly and want an uncluttered look to your yard, don't fret, there are ways of compensating yourself while at the same time being friendly with the finer feathered friends. You build for yourself a wilderness area on the outskirts of your property where every conceivable need of your respected guests - birds - will be met, while keeping your own garden your way. Of course you will have a few nearby trees with special treats for them so they will fly in regularly to feast on your goodies. Then, when their thoughts turn to nesting and their own families they can retreat to their hideaways and construct their homes.

What then are the best plants to attract birds?

Evergreens are

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